Trae Young is embracing a fresh start with the Washington Wizards and is determined to return to the level that has defined his NBA career.
Speaking to Michael Porter Jr., Young said staying healthy is important, but he is not dwelling on his injury-shortened 2025-26 season.
“For me, it’s just about, obviously I got to stay healthy, but that’s not something I’m worried about at all,” Young said, via HoopsHype. “Last year was just last year, and for me, I’m ready to play, I’m ready to get back to what I’ve been my whole career, but just taking it to another level.”
Young played only 15 games last season after beginning the year with Atlanta and finishing it with Washington. He averaged 17.9 points and 8.0 assists overall, including 19.3 points and 8.9 assists in 10 games with the Hawks and 15.2 points and 6.2 assists in five games with the Wizards.
The abbreviated campaign marked a significant departure from Young’s production over his first seven seasons. He entered 2025-26 averaging 25.2 points and 9.8 assists in 483 games, while earning three All-Star selections and an All-NBA Third Team selection.
Young’s most recent full season was particularly productive. In 2024-25, he averaged 24.2 points and a career-high 11.6 assists while playing all 76 games for Atlanta. He also finished fourth in Clutch Player of the Year voting.
His five-game stint in Washington provided a small glimpse of his efficiency, as he shot 59.5% from the field and 42.9% from three-point range, although his playing time was limited to 20.8 minutes per game.
Young believes his move to Washington can provide a renewed sense of energy.
“And I’m always just trying to continue to take it to another level,” he said. “And this is not anything different. For me, switching places and switching environments is now giving me a new breath of fresh air and for me, I’m ready to take advantage of it.”
The Wizards committed to Young during the offseason with a four-year, $212.8 million contract. Washington is also building around Anthony Davis and No. 1 overall pick AJ Dybantsa, while adding Deandre Ayton and Khris Middleton.
The projected starting lineup features Young alongside Tre Johnson, Dybantsa, Davis and Alex Sarr, giving the Wizards a mix of established veterans and young talent.
Young also stressed the importance of the people surrounding him as he prepares for the next chapter.
“I got some great people around me that’s going to help me,” he said. “I can’t do something and just be happy by myself. I always love seeing everybody around me happy.”
